A few minutes after Avery had finished getting ready, a soft knock on her bedroom door pulled her from her thoughts. She opened the door to find her younger sister, Haylee, standing there with an excited expression on her face. Her cheeks were flushed with excitement, and her bright eyes sparkled with youthful enthusiasm.

"Shane is here, Avery," Haylee said, her voice bubbling with joy. "You look so pretty!"

Avery felt a rush of warmth and gratitude for her sister's support. She ...